Qld bikies lodge High Court challenge
2:16

A High Court challenge to Queensland's controversial anti-bikie laws is being lodged in Brisbane.

Sky News

21 Mar 2014

News

The ``sick puppies’’ might sound like a menacing criminal gang but in reality they are the unintended victims of Queensland’s anti-bikie crackdown.

The RSPCA says the State Government’s controversial legislation, which outlaws bikies gathering together in public, has crippled an event that raises funds for veterinary surgery.

The animal welfare charity’s Queensland chief executive, Mark Townend, says the annual Ruff Riders charity motorcycle race, led by racing legend Craig Lowndes, is only a week away and is struggling for numbers because of the anti-bikie laws.

``People are ringing us up and emailing saying they’re reluctant to join the ride because they’re frightened of being targeted and arrested,’’ Mr Townend said.

``We’ve done all the right things and informed the police and registered the ride but people are still nervous.’’

Mr Townend, himself a proud Harley-Davidson motorcycle owner, has called on Premier Campbell Newman to assure participants the legislation won’t affect them.

``People need to hear it from him,’’ he said.

``Our assurances are not working.’’

Mr Townend said the money would go towards the RSPCA’s veterinary costs, which have increased due to more complex surgeries such as orthopedic and eye operations being conducted.

``In the end it’s all about giving animals a second chance,’’ he said.

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